Help the kids make and send a customized long-distance hug to grandparents! Learn how at www.sandiegofamily.com/ for-the-kids/crafts-forkids/diy-send-a-hug.
8
Ways to Connect with Grandparents
During a
Pandemic Jill Morgenstern
22 • SanDiegofamily.com • September 2020
As a child I was jealous of kids who
could visit their grandparents after school. Having grandparents who lived close by seemed like so much fun! But when physical and social distancing is necessary for everyone’s health, maintaining connection can be a challenge, even for grandparents who live just down the street. If you’re looking for new and inventive ways to maintain close relationships between generations, try these ideas.
Social Distancing Dinner Have dinner outside when schedules permit, spacing chairs more than six feet apart and enjoying time together. This is an easy way to stay connected with grandparents who live close by. Consider a regular weekly dinner date.
Read a Book Together My mother calls my 8-year-old daughter at the same time every
morning to read another chapter of The Borrowers. This not only keeps her connected with her grandmother, but also offers the benefits of reading aloud, such as building vocabulary and creating a positive attitude towards reading.
Play Online Games Just because you can’t get together in person doesn’t mean game night is out of the question. Try online games such as Scrabble Go or Spyfall, or apps such as Together or Houseparty. Just as playing traditional board games offers educational benefits, online games can help develop skills such as vocabulary and math.
Text and Email Have kids text and email grandparents. It’s a great way to practice writing, while putting a smile on their faces.
Grandparents Day is Sunday, Sept. 13. Discover ways to celebrate (even from a distance) at www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/ seasonal-happenings/celebrate-grandparents-day.
